"Today's announcement from the UK Government is deeply disappointing and extremely concerning for the future of this forward-thinking project.

"18 months ago the UK Government's own Hendry Review concluded the technology would make a strong contribution to the UK energy supply and would bring significant economic opportunities.

"Since then ministers have sat on their hands, seemingly unable or unwilling to engage with the project's backers, Tidal Lagoon Power.

"Last month this Committee invited the Secretary of State for Wales, Alun Cairns MP, to discuss the future of the tidal lagoon with us but received no reply. There are now serious questions the Secretary of State must answer to add clarity and understanding to the UK Government's decision to go against the recommendations of its own review.

"This is a huge missed opportunity for Swansea and south Wales to be at the forefront of tidal lagoon technology, but also for the UK generally in becoming a truly sustainable energy generating country."